Council defends its bin collection letter

The council has defended its position in the wake of accusations it wasted tax-payers money by distributing a letter to householders warning of a possible change to their bin collection day.

The letter, which was circulated last week, explained that changes may come about following a review of operations in which new collection routes will be developed to increase efficiency.

It advised that any residents affected will be told in March if their bin collection day is to change with an expected 65% of households in the former Banbridge District Council area to have a change implemented from April.

A number of residents hit out on social media pages Banbridge Saints and Sinners and Armagh City Banbridge Craigavon Council Watchdog Group, to criticize the move.

Kevin Shawn Carter said the council was ‘basically sending out a letter to say they’ll send out a letter if our bin day changes’.

He questioned: “How much would it cost in brain storming, writing, printing and distribution to let us know we might get another letter to let us know what our new bin day is going to be?”

Andy Potts said: “A letter to say we would be sent a letter. Joke.”

Beverley Cvetkova said: “I thought I was the only one who thought this letter was ridiculous not to mention yet another waste of money.” James Wright said: “Bureaucracy at its finest.”

A council spokesperson however stressed that the letter was to keep people well informed.

“The letter was sent to help improve two-way communications, enabling householders to contact Environmental Services if they had any queries before the changes come into effect.

“The Council will be providing further information along with a waste collection calendar to all households in March.

“However it is hoped that with the advanced notification letter, householders will be better prepared for any changes.

“If householders require any further information, they should contact the Environmental Services Department directly on 028 4066 0604.”